The world famous bullet trains are on a revolutionary path as Japan has recently tested its new ‘L0 series’ train which is capable of running upto the speed of 500 km/hr. The new generation L0 series train is based on the magnetic levitation technology, known as ‘Maglev’. The L0 train looks unusual with a long nose shaped front design for aerodynamic purpose that has also helped it to become the world’s fastest train.
The working module is based on the use of powerful magnets to levitate and propel the trains with the repulsion and attraction force instead of the wheels, axles, bearings, combustion engine and the other standard mechanism which can be seen on present trains. The run-test was conducted at the Central Japan Railway test track in Yamanashi Prefecture, central Japan. The authorities have extended the track by 43 kms to bring out the full potential of the L0 train.
The best part about the Maglev trains is they do not touch the rails while in motion that results in a smooth, wobble free experience for the passengers. The acceleration and deceleration is even faster as no contact with track causes no friction besides the reduced effect of weather on running of the trains. The coach architecture is based on the cross-section semi-square design that boosts space inside the coach. Although the test has been conducted in recent time, the commercial use of Maglev trains in Japan is scheduled to start only in 2027.
The development of Maglev L0 trains could shorten the travel time from 90 minutes to 40 minutes between Tokyo and Nagoya city. The first L0 train will have 16 coaches with a total capacity of 1000 passengers. Japan conceived bullet trains in 1964 and has plans to establish the new high speed Maglev train network across the country by 2045. The engineering marvel will be a corollary for India too, evident by a joint statement issued by the both countries’ government to develop high speed trains in collaboration for India.
